watch over them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "watch over them" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of taking care of or monitoring someone or something for their safety or well-being. Example: "As a parent, it's important to watch over them while they play outside to ensure they are safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Wood ants watch over them protectively.

The New York Times

May the angels watch over them both.

The New York Times

"At that point you're not there to watch over them.

The New York Times

My sheep are lucky that I watch over them, he thought.

Princeton University

Sinking together Call options Resilient wreckers Someone to watch over them Award: Ludwig Siegele Reprints.

The Economist

The athletes run around the sports field while O'Connell and Kiprono watch over them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And, he contends, the bankers have co-opted many of the regulators who watch over them.

The New York Times

Two union men, earning roughly $30 an hour, keep watch over them.

The New York Times

Palestinians want "observers," the implication being an international force to watch over them.

The New York Times

"I asked God to care of them, to watch over them," he said.

The New York Times

The scarcity value of broadcast frequencies is a big reason the Federal Communications Commission keeps close watch over them.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "watch over them", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the level of protection or supervision intended. For informal situations, "look after them" might be more appropriate, while formal contexts may benefit from "supervise them".

Common error

While "watch over them" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can make the tone seem less professional. Opt for more formal alternatives like "supervise", "oversee", or "monitor" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "watch over them" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of supervising, protecting, or safeguarding someone or something. As Ludwig examples show, it is used in contexts ranging from parental care to institutional oversight.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

18%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Science

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "watch over them" is a common and generally correct way to express the act of supervising, protecting, or safeguarding someone or something. Ludwig examples illustrate its versatility across various contexts, from parental care to institutional oversight. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, it's important to consider the specific context when choosing this phrase. More formal alternatives like "supervise" or "oversee" might be more suitable in professional settings. Overall, "watch over them" is a reliable and widely understood expression for conveying care and responsibility.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Look after them

Emphasizes care and attention, focusing on well-being.

Take care of them

Focuses on providing for their needs and well-being.

Keep an eye on them

Highlights visual monitoring for safety and security.

Supervise them

Focuses on overseeing activities, often in a formal setting.

Keep them safe

Directly emphasizes ensuring their security and well-being.

Guard them

Stresses protection from danger or harm.

Protect them

Highlights shielding from harm or negative influences.

Be vigilant over them

Emphasizes being alert and watchful, suggesting a potential threat.

Shepherd them

Suggests guiding and protecting, often in a nurturing way.

Be their guardian

Implies legal or moral responsibility for their welfare.

FAQs

What does "watch over them" mean?

The phrase "watch over them" means to protect, guard, or supervise someone or something. It implies ensuring their safety and well-being.

What can I say instead of "watch over them"?

You can use alternatives like "look after them", "keep an eye on them", or "supervise them" depending on the context.

Is "watch over them" formal or informal?

The phrase "watch over them" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in professional settings.

How can I use "watch over them" in a sentence?

You can use "watch over them" in a sentence like, "As a parent, it's my responsibility to watch over them" or "The security guards watch over them to ensure their safety".